Why choose the University of Tartu? Insights from international students

Studying abroad is a life-changing experience, and for many international students, the University of Tartu stands out as a top choice. In the first episode of Tiksu to UniTartu (click here), Vincent Arata, an international student from the United States, sat down with Kateryna Kubrak, a recent PhD graduate and master’s alumna of the University of Tartu, originally from Ukraine, to discuss their experiences, from choosing the university to thriving in Tartu’s vibrant academic and cultural environment.

Kateryna’s journey to Tartu began with a shared dream with a friend to pursue a master’s degree in Europe. While researching universities, she discovered the University of Tartu through a friend who was already studying there. “When I read about the Innovation and Technology Management programme (check it out here), I thought, this is exactly what I want to do,” Kateryna said. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach, blending IT and business, exceeded her expectations and provided a solid foundation for her academic and professional growth.

The application process was also a positive experience. “The system was straightforward and clear. Everything I needed to submit was well-documented,” she said.

Upon arriving in Tartu, Kateryna had initial prejudices about the city’s size. Coming from a city of 4 million people, she worried Tartu might feel too small. “But when I arrived on a sunny day in September, the lively main square and vibrant atmosphere immediately changed my perspective,” she recalled.

For Vincent, the sense of community was a highlight. “One in three people in Tartu is connected to the university, making it a true student city,” he noted. The sense of belonging extends beyond the classroom to student organisations and events like the beloved Tartu Student Days (read more here). Kateryna, for example, joined the International Student Ambassadors (click here), where she found lasting friendships and opportunities to help prospective students.

Outside academia, Kateryna was particularly struck by Tartu’s digital advancements. She noted how Estonia’s innovative digital systems simplify everyday life, from healthcare to government services. “It is amazing how seamlessly integrated everything is here,” she expressed the feeling shared by many international students.

For those still on the fence about choosing Tartu, Kateryna offered a sincere recommendation: “Don’t hesitate. Coming to the University of Tartu has been one of the best decisions of my life. My experience here has improved every aspect of my life, and I will always be grateful for it.”

Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? Join a supportive, dynamic, and internationally recognised university. Apply to the University of Tartu today – your adventure awaits!

Application periods:

• Bachelor’s programmes: 2 January – 15 April
• Master’s programmes: 2 January – 15 March (except for master’s in Excellence in Analytical Chemistry, in which the application deadline is 5 November – 5 January)

Don't miss your chance—start preparing your application now!

Listen to the "Why did I decide to study at the University of Tartu?" episode of the Tiksu to UniTartu podcast: